“Your makeup is so beautiful! What products do you use? Also, what is the process?! :D”

So I answered and thought ‘hey, might as well throw it up on the blog too’. I’m always being asked random “what color is that?”, “what brand do you use for ____?”, “how do I get this look?” and this might help clear up a few questions or point ya’ll in the right direction in the cosmetics hall (or navigating Sephora dot com)!

I’ve been enthralled by makeup and it’s ability to transform, change, and heighten ever since my dad brought me home a bright red tube of Revlon lipstick when I was four years old as costume fun. My little sister got into it and made a massive mess, brought me to tears and a sworn hatred towards her for the rest of the night, and she required a severe bath- but kickstarted what would be a long and delightful adventure into the world of makeup.

I was extraordinarily pleased with this editorial I shot early last month with the energetic and dynamic photographer Jack Malipan and creative and skilled hair stylist Ryan Drewe Taylor from The Dollhouse. Shooting in an oil slicked auto parts garage surrounded by rusted nuts and bolts wasn’t glamorous in any way especially when I saw a cockroach scurry across a pair of the wardrobe shoes. Balancing in five inch wedges and a dress that barely covered my cake as onlookers gawked wasn’t easy either, but the results were entirely worth it. Who can complain when you’re working with such a great team? I absolutely adore working with these talents and look forward for more to come.

It’s been quite a while since my last lay-around-and-do-nothing vacation, so this upcoming trip to Kep is much looked forward to.

We’ll be staying at the Raingsey Bungalows, which have received excellent reviews from various booking sites. Known for its succulent crab (can’t partake due to serious allergies), gorgeous mountains, and hidden exploratory gems- Kep should be the ideal getaway for the Cambodian holiday, Pchum Ben.

For someone who likes to double check, sometimes triple (quadruple…) everything- I find it’s sometimes best to just throw everything into a satchel the morning of travel and if anything is left behind- too bad!

Since I’ve been able to do a bit of traveling here and there around the country for the past year- I’ve gotten down pat what usually needs to be taken. I thought I’d share a few travel essentials that make traveling light (one small bag, ladies and germs!) and easy.

(I know this is going to look like a pure joke to travelers who really are making treks, traveling hard from country to country, and do it all with one or two outfits through the wind, sun, cold, and elements. This post, my friends, is not for you.)

I still haven’t quite caught my breath after a week of constant go-go-go!

From the start of last week up until today, there has been a constant stream of events, happenings, decisions, and occurrences that have left me a bit shocked at all that can happen within a span of seven days.

I’ve had quite a few questions recently about my favorite beauty and skincare products.

The majority of these things are unavailable in Cambodia so that’s a bust, but I’ll be sure to pick up the staples next time I’m in Bangkok.

Although I don’t use all of these every day (and I’ve run out of a few) they’re the colors that I’ve found to be most flattering on my skin tone and with my features. I do miss my full kit of products left back at home and as an ex makeup artist and esthetician the lack of quality products in Phnom Penh is more than frustrating.

On that dire note, I’m always happy to lend a hand with application or a shopping trip.

Products as follow:

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Medium Deep: Skinfinish offers coverage between a foundation and a bronzer. A light dusting of color perfect for contouring or a healthy glow.

Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion: With very few ingredients, non-comedogenic, and fragrance free this lotion is ideal for sensitive skin. Some of my clients with the smoothest and plumpest skin in their fifties swore by using Cetaphil since their teens

MAC Lipstick in Freckletone and Media: Freckletone, a perfect nude for tanned skin and daytime wear and Media, a rich burgundy ideal for layering to achieve wine stained lips or a deep, almost black pout

Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner in Brown: a bit softer than a harsh black liner, stays all day and perfect for blending